PROGRAMME DESCRIPTION

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Theology and Doctor of Ecumenism is a research-based degree and aligns to the Pacific Qualification Framework (PQF) at level 10 with a total of 360 credits. 

TH800 RESEARCH THESIS: PHD IN THEOLOGY or PHD in ECUMENISM

The degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is awarded on the basis of a research thesis successfully completed and approved by the Board of Examiners (BoE) and endorsed by the Kaliloa. The thesis should provide evidence of the candidate’s ability to do independent research and to make an original contribution to existing body of knowledge in the area of study. The quality of the research should be of a kind expected of a conscientious and diligent candidate to produce within the timeframe designated for the degree, to be completed under the regulations for fulltime and part-time studies. The title of the degree on the Testamur when a student graduate is Doctor of Philosophy in Theology or Doctor of Ecumenism.

PURPOSE  

The purpose of the Doctor of Philosophy is to train future leaders of the church as academics and/or pastor-scholars.
The purpose of the Doctor of Ecumenism is to train future leaders of faith communities as academics, practitioners, or scholars.

RATIONALE 

The Doctor of Philosophy is a research-based degree whereby PCU seeks to foster Oceanic-grown scholars of the highest level who can contribute original research and praxis to regional and international issues related to theology. Hence it is based on original theses in a particular discipline: Biblical Studies – OT/NT; Theology & Ethics; History of Christianity; Practical Ministry; or Ecumenism. These scholars can contribute Pacific voices to theological and social justice issues both in the region and internationally, and can, in turn, seed theological scholarship and training in regional theological colleges. 

The Doctor of Ecumenism is a professional and academic doctorate awarded at the successful completion of a research project that makes an original contribution to ecumenical scholarship whilst furthering the whole of life principles of the Pasifika Household. The programme caters to leaders, practitioners, or scholars seeking advanced knowledge of leadership, justice, development, and practical strategies that are communities and ecumenically based.

Although the degree is research-based, the analytical skills acquired are specific to the professional needs of the student in conjunction with the demands from his or her faith context and and/or communities.

RATIONALE 

On completion, a graduate of the Doctor of Philosophy in Theology or Doctor of Ecumenism will be able to:  Demonstrate, through original research thesis, a systematic and critical understanding in one or more specialist fields or discipline areas: Biblical Studies (OT/NT); Theology & Ethics; History of Christianity; Practical Ministry; or Ecumenism; by planning and generating a substantial and original contribution that advances scholarship or professional practice. 

DURATION OF STUDIES

1  Fulltime

Fulltime study of the doctoral programme (PhD Theology and D Ecumenism) is not less than 3 years and no more than 6 years. The student completes their proposal in the first 6 months and completes their literature review, making an application for full candidature at 12 months.

2  Parttime

Parttime study of doctoral programme (PhD Theology and D Ecumenism) may be completed in no less than 5 years and no more than 8 years. Full candidature occurs at 2 years.

SUPERVISORS

The discipline appoints a primary supervisor from the discipline of study, approved by the Head of School. A secondary external supervisor is also appointed from a related field of study.

ADMISSION PROCESS

1 Entry Requirement for PhD in Theology

Provide evidence of:

1. a) A Master of Theology degree or equivalent, with a B+ average or above in the appropriate research component, from an accredited institution; and
2. b) Evidence of ability to undertake independent research in the area of proposed study.

2 Entry Requirement for Doctor of Ecumenism

Provide evidence of:

1. a) A Master’s degree, with a B+ average or above in the appropriate research component, from an accredited institution; and
2. b) Evidence of ability to undertake independent research in the area of proposed study; and
3. c) Evidence of work experience in the area of proposed study.

3  Applications may be made at any time using the prescribed online form.

4  For PhD applications, the applicant should indicate the proposed field of research:

• Biblical Studies
• Theology & Ethics
• History of Christianity
• Practical Ministry

5  Successful applicants, on receiving their ‘offer letter’ of a place in the programme, must notify in writing their acceptance of the offer within 20 working days.